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2025 Suzuki SV650 Returns

The 2025 Suzuki SV650 makes a triumphant return to the Malaysian market.

The SV650 is a long-running model, featuring the venerable 645cc, 90° V-Twin, which has been in circulation since 1999. The reasons for its long-life are easy to see: Refined and trouble-free from the very beginning, plenty of torque and useable powerband, and mounted on a super agile chassis.

It is also a practical and accessible bike, promising plenty of thrills for new and veteran riders alike.

Unfortunately, this is the SV650’s swan song edition, as the V-Twin engine will be fully replaced by the newer parallel-twin.

From the Press Release

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 19 April 2025 (Saturday) – Suzuki Malaysia proudly announces the arrival of one of its most iconic motorcycles – the Suzuki SV650. More than just a return, this marks the final edition of a legendary V-Twin roadster, embodying the spirit of the Samurai – refined, powerful, and fearless.

The reintroduction of the SV650 was unveiled in conjunction with the annual AMI-Suzuki Syoknya Raya! 2025, held at the MATRADE Exhibition Hall, Kuala Lumpur.

This special occasion was not only a launch event but also a festive celebration of the Suzuki Familia – bringing together proud Suzuki bike owners from across the country for a joyful annual Hari Raya gathering.

SV650: Embrace The Spirit of Samurai Warrior

The full heritage of the Suzuki SV650 stands proudly as a two-wheeled icon — blending character and performance in a way few motorcycles can. With its muscular 645cc V-Twin engine, nimble chassis, and retro-modern styling, it offers a riding experience that excites both new and seasoned riders alike. It truly embodies Suzuki’s enduring spirit, where precision engineering meets the soul of a warrior. This final edition marks the celebration of an iconic chapter, honouring a legacy that has brought together a global community of passionate riders for over two decades.

The Suzuki SV650 channels the spirit of the modern-day samurai — refined, responsive, and always in control. At the heart of the bike lies its iconic Lattice Trellis Frame paired with a compact 645cc V-Twin engine — a combination as precise and balanced as a samurai’s katana in the hands of a skilled warrior. This lightweight and responsive pairing delivers unwavering confidence in real-world riding, whether weaving through city traffic or carving through tight corners.

Blending classic styling with modern engineering, the SV650 offers an agile and
connected ride, echoing the discipline and harmony of a true Samurai. Modern features
further elevate the experience:

Suzuki’s Low RPM Assist helps maintain engine idle during take-off and low-speed manoeuvres — ideal for novice riders mastering their technique.
Suzuki Easy Start System allows for effortless, one-touch ignition—swift and efficient like a warrior’s instinct.
A slim, lightweight body and low seat height (785mm) make it accessible, intuitive, and confidence-inspiring for riders of all levels.

The Suzuki SV650 is priced at RM29,900 (excluding registration, road tax and insurance), and is available in a variety of bold colours – Pearl Vigor Blue / Metallic Mat Black No.2 (CGJ), Pearl Mat Shadow Green / Metallic Mat Black No.2 (C2L), and Metallic Mat Black No.2 (YKV).

It is now available at authorized Suzuki Big Bike World and Suzuki Station Plus dealerships nationwide. Visit www.suzuki.com.my to find your nearest showroom and embrace the Spirit of The Samurai.

Return of Suzuki into Competitive Racing – Be Part of a Legacy!

At the same event, Suzuki Malaysia has introduced the AMI Suzuki Motorsport (ASM) racing team with the SV650 project serving as the foundation for this exciting new initiative that connects owners directly to Suzuki’s racing journey. The team will compete in both the MAM Malaysia Superbike Championship (MSBK) under the MSBK1000 category and MotoMSF under the MSF Superbike category. ASM also unveiled its race-prepared GSX-R1000R superbike, developed with performance upgrades by Yoshimura Japan. This machine was proudly showcased during the event as a symbol of Suzuki’s return to competitive racing.

To ensure a strong and competitive presence on the grid, ZK Racing led by former Moto3 rider Zulfahmi Khairudin and his experienced crew, has been entrusted by Suzuki Malaysia to manage the technical preparation of the race bikes as well as the overall race team operations throughout the season. The ASM campaign features two factory-backed teams with AMI-Suzuki Motorsport (ASM) led by national WSBK talent Adam Norrodin, and the Mobilub Suzuki Racing Team (MSRT), which fields five riders including three international talents. Together, they promise an action-packed season ahead.

Photo gallery

Jualan Global Suzuki pada 2024 Terbaik dalam 15 Tahun

Jualan Suzuki semakin meningkat dari tahun ke tahun sejak kemerosotan pada tahun 2020, dan mencapai yang terbaik dalam 15 tahun terakhir pada tahun 2024.

Angka-angka ini dipaparkan di laman web MotorCycleData, yang menjejak pendaftaran motosikal baharu di 90 negara. Laman web ini hanya mengambil kira pendaftaran motosikal dan bukannya yang diinvois oleh pengeluar.

Menurut mereka, kira-kira 2.1 juta motosikal Suzuki didaftarkan pada tahun 2024, mewakili peningkatan sebanyak 6.1%.

Dari segi wilayah, Eropah Barat mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 23.4%, Amerika Latin juga mencatatkan peningkatan sebanyak 23.4%, manakala Eropah Timur menyumbang peningkatan yang sangat besar iaitu 140.2%.

Bagi negara individu, jualan meningkat sebanyak 157% di Turki, 59% di Bangladesh, 47.1% di Jerman, 36.8% di Argentina, 30.5% di Perancis, 17.3% di India, dan 5.4% di Colombia.

Walau bagaimanapun, jualan menurun sebanyak 25.4% di China.

Laman web itu tidak mendedahkan model mana yang paling laris. Suzuki kini merupakan pengeluar motosikal ketujuh terbesar di dunia:

Honda;
Hero Motor;
Yamaha;
Bajaj Auto;
TVS Motor;
Yadea;
Suzuki;
Haojue;
KTM;
CFMoto.

Suzuki GSX-S1000GX – Juara Keseluruhan, Tourer Terbaik 2025

Suzuki GSX-S1000GX – Juara Keseluruhan, Tourer Terbaik 2025

Kini, untuk kemuncak Anugerah Motosikal Tahunan Allianz-BikesRepublic.com 2025. Pemenang Juara Keseluruhan adalah Suzuki GSX-S1000GX. Motosikal ini turut memenangi kategori penting Tourer Terbaik 2025.

Mengapa Suzuki GSX-S1000GX menang?

Suzuki sudah mempunyai GSX-S1000GT, yang merupakan motosikal sport-tourer. Sebaliknya, Suzuki menggelar GSX-S1000GX sebagai ‘The Supreme Sport Crossover’, iaitu gabungan antara sport-tourer dan adventure tourer.

Ini bermakna motosikal ini mempunyai suspensi yang lebih panjang, hendal yang lebih tegak, dan ketinggian tempat duduk yang lebih tinggi.

Berbicara tentang suspensi, ia adalah Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension. Ia menerima data dari unit pengukuran inersia (IMU) untuk memberikan jenis redaman yang betul dalam meliputi semua aspek menunggang. Suspensi belakang termasuk ciri ‘auto-levelling‘ yang menyesuaikan pra-beban spring untuk menampung berat yang berbeza. Keseimbangan yang betul sentiasa penting dalam memastikan kawalan yang optimum.

Enjinnya adalah 999cc inline-four yang sebenarnya berasal daripada motosikal sport GSX-R1000 K5 tahun 2005 yang hebat. Ya, motosikal sport yang sama yang digunakan oleh BMW untuk membangunkan motosikal sport S 1000 RR mereka. Ia menghasilkan 150 HP pada 11,000 RPM dan 106 Nm pada 9,250 RPM. Ini adalah enjin yang sangat hebat, memberikan semua tork dan kuasa serta-merta, sambil tetap lancar.

Walaupun ketinggian tempat duduknya 845mm yang mungkin sedikit mencabar untuk sesetengah penunggang, meletakkan kaki di tanah tidak pernah menjadi masalah. Malah, penunggang boleh menggunakan fungsi pra-beban belakang elektronik untuk merendahkan bahagian belakang motosikal apabila berhenti, dan beralih kembali ke AUTO selepas bergerak.

Pakej yang berspesifikasi tinggi ini menghasilkan motosikal yang sangat berkemampuan. Selesa di jalan yang buruk, sambil mampu bergerak lincah di laluan berliku. Bersama dengan tangki bahan api 19 liter, menempuh ribuan kilometer dalam satu hari bukanlah masalah – sebaliknya ketahanan dan stamina penunggang adalah satu-satunya had.

Harganya yang RM 89,900 mungkin tinggi bagi sesetengah orang, tetapi ingatlah spesifikasi hebatnya dan fakta bahawa Suzuki GSX-S1000GX ini dibuat sepenuhnya di Jepun.

Apa yang kami suka: Great value. Spesifikasi tinggi, enjin, pengendalian pada harga yang agak baik.

Apa yang kami tidak suka: Kami telah cuba mencari kelemahan motosikal ini tetapi tidak terjumpa.

Harga jualan asas: RM89,900

Suzuki GSX-S1000GX – Overall Champion and Tourer of the Year 2025

Now, for the highlight of the Allianz-BikesRepublic.com Motorcycle of the Year Awards 2025. The winner of the Overall Champion is the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX. The bike also captured the important Best Tourer 2025 category.

Why did the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX win?

Suzuki already has the GSX-S1000GT, which is a sport-tourer. On the other hand, Suzuki calls the GSX-S1000GX “The Supreme Sport Crossover.” That is correct, it is a sport-tourer crossed with an adventure tourer.

It means that the bike has longer travel suspension, a more upright handblebar, and higher seat height.

Speaking of the suspension, it is Suzuki Advanced Electronic Suspension. It gets data from the inertial measurement unit (IMU) to deliver the right kind of damping, covering all aspects of riding. The rear suspension includes an auto-levelling feature which adjusts the spring’s preload to cater for different weights being carried. The right balance is always important in ensuring optimal control.

The engine is a 999cc inline-four is actually derived from the sublime 2005 GSX-R1000 K5 sportsbike. Yes, the very sportsbike that BMW used to develop their S 1000 RR sportsbike. It produces 150 HP at 11,000 RPM and 106 Nm at 9,250 RPM. This is a supremely wonderful engine, delivering all the torque and power at an instant, while still remaining smooth.

Despite its 845mm seat height which may be a little challenging for some riders, putting a foot on the ground was never an issue. In fact, the rider could use the electronic rear preload function to lower the back of the bike when he stops, and switch back to AUTO once under way.

That kind of up-specced package delivered a supremely capable motorcycle. Comfortable on bad roads, while being able to be hustled along quickly in the twisties. Together with the 19-litre fuel tank, chewing up thousands of kilometres in one day would be of no problem – the rider’s resolve and stamina is the only limitation.

Its selling price of RM 89,900 may be steep for some, but remember the great specs and that the Suzuki GSX-S1000GX is fully made in Japan.

What we liked: Great specs, engine, handling at a good price. Great value.

What we did not like: We tried hard to find something, but we could not.

Nett selling price: RM89,900

Harga Suzuki GSX-8R Diumumkan, dari RM53,800

Ramai peminat, termasuk kami, telah menunggu dan malah memohon Suzuki Malaysia untuk mengumumkan harga jualan Suzuki GSX-8R sejak ia didedahkan suatu ketika dahulu. Sekarang kita tahu, ia bermula dari RM53,800.

Sebagai imbasan, Suzuki GSX-8R seperti adiknya GSX-8S telah menikmati jualan pesat di seluruh dunia. Sejak itu, ia telah mendapat banyak pujian termasuk Anugerah Motosikal Terbaik bagi Tahun 2023 daripada Motorcycle News (MCN), walaupun ia berdepan saingan sengit dalam kategori yang kompetitif itu. Pemilik dan pengulas sama-sama menyukai pengendalian, ciri elektronik dan nilainya.

Walaupun ia lebih sporty daripada GSX-8S, Suzuki tidak pernah melupakan keselesaan dan ciri praktikal untuk penunggang, sama seperti rangkaian motosikal sport GSX-R. GSX-8R boleh berfungsi sebagai motosikal saban hari dan pengembara jarak jauh.

Enjinnya ialah 776cc, berkembar selari dengan engkol 270º, dan menghasilkan 82hp pada 8,500 RPM dan 78Nm pada 6,800 RPM. Memang, 82hp dari motosikal kelas 800cc tidaklah banyak, tetapi tork yang tinggi itulah yang menjadikannya sedap untuk ditunggangi.

Casis termasuk fork Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP), dilengkapi dengan kalier brek Nissin yang dipasang secara jejari.

Bantuan penunggang elektronik termasuk Sistem Kawalan Traksi Suzuki (STCS) dengan tiga mod tunggangan, ABS dwi saluran dan quickshifter. Terdapat paparan TFT 5-inci.

Untuk menggariskan kehebatan sukan Suzuki GSX-8R, Team Hammer telah mencapai kemenangan perlumbaan ke-133 mereka dalam kejohanan AMA Pro dan MotoAmerica National dengan motosikal ini pada 2024.

Kami tidak sabar untuk menyemak basikal ini. Siapa tahu, kami mungkin terjebak hendak memilikkinya juga!

Suzuki GSX-8R Price Annouced from RM53,800

Many, us included, had been waiting and even imploring Suzuki Malaysia to release the selling price of the Suzuki GSX-8R since it was revealed some time back. Now we know, it starts from RM53,800.

To recap, the Suzuki GSX-8R like its GSX-8S naked sibling have been enjoying brisk sales the world over. It has since garnered much accolade include the prestigious Motorcycle News (MCM) Sportsbike of the Year Award for 2023, despite facing stiff competition in that er… competitive category. Owners and reviewers alike loved its handling, electronics, and value.

Although it is sportier than the GSX-8S, Suzuki never forgets about rider comfort and practicality, just like GSX-R sportbike range. The GSX-8R can serve as a daily commuter and long-range tourer.

The engine is a 776cc, parallel-twin with 270º carnk, and produces 82hp at 8,500 RPM and 78Nm at 6,800 RPM. Granted, 82hp from a sub-800cc bike is not a lot, but that high torque is what makes the bike a gem to ride.

The chassis includes Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork, complemented by radially-mounted Nissin calipers.

Electronic rider aids include the Suzuki Traction Control System (STCS) with three riding modes, dual-channel ABS, and quickshifter. There is a 5-inch TFT display.

To underline the Suzuki GSX-8R’s sporting prowess, Team Hammer had achieved their 133rd race win in the AMA Pro and MotoAmerica National championships with the bike in 2024.

We cannot wait to review this bike. Who knows, we might add it to our stable, too!

Jualan Suzuki Suku Pertama dan Suku Kedua 2024 Meningkat

Jualan motosikal untuk Suzuki pada Suku Pertama (Q1) dan Suku Kedua (Q2) di seluruh dunia telah meningkat, sehingga pengeluar telah melaraskan ramalan mereka lebih tinggi untuk sepanjang tahun.

Suzuki menjual 523,000 motosikal pada Q1 dan 499,000 motosikal pada Q2 tahun ini, berbanding 479,000 pada Q1 dan 494,000 pada Q2, 2023. Sekiranya keputusan itu berterusan, Suzuki akan menyaksikan peningkatan sebanyak 4.5 peratus dalam hasil, 10.4 peratus peningkatan dalam keuntungan dan 4.9 peratus peningkatan dalam jualan motosikal global.

Jualan tahunan pengeluar telah meningkat secara berterusan sejak 2020 apabila wabak Covid-19 melanda. Mereka telah menjual 1,535,000 motosikal pada tahun itu, 1,634,000 pada 2021, 1,859,000 pada 2022 dan 1,912,000 pada 2023. Jadi, unjuran yang lebih tinggi untuk TK 2024, memandangkan prestasi semasa mereka sepatutnya menyaksikan jualan melebihi 2,000.

Dengan memecahkan prestasi mengikut rantau, Asia terus menjadi prestasi terbaik dengan mencatatkan 1,225,000 jualan dari 2020-2023. Negara Asia yang mencatatkan jualan terbesar dalam tempoh yang sama ialah India dengan 557,000 unit, China (374,000), dan Filipina (136,000). Negara-negara Asia lain menyumbang 158,000 jualan, kesemuanya.

Suzuki berharap Suzuki V-Strom 250SX 2024 baharu yang kami rebiu baru-baru ini akan mengukuhkan jualan mereka di rantau Asia.

Suzuki Q1 and Q2 2024 Worldwide Sales Increased

Suzuki Q1 and Q2 2024 worldwide sales has increased, so much so that the maker has adjusted their forecast higher for the entire year.

Suzuki sold 523,000 bikes in Q1 and 499,000 bikes in Q2 this year, compared to 479,000 in Q1 and 494,000 in Q2, 2023. Should the trend continue, Suzuki will see a 4.5 percent increase in revenues, 10.4 percent increase in profits, and 4.9 percent rise in global motorcycle sales.

The manufacturer’s annual sales has been increasing steadily since 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic struck. They had sold 1,535,000 motorcycles that year, 1,634,000 in 2021, 1,859,000 in 2022, and 1,912,000 in 2023. So, the higher projections for FY 2024, given their current performance should see sales above the 2,000,000 mark.

Breaking performance down by region, Asia continues to be the best performer by notching up 1,225,000 sales from 2020-2023. The Asian countries which saw the biggest sales during the same period were India with 557,000 units, China (374,000), and the Philippines (136,000). Other Asian countries contributed 158,000 of sales, altogether.

Suzuki hopes that the new 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX which we reviewed recently will strengthen their sales in the Asian region.

Ujian dan Ulasan Suzuki V-Strom 250SX (2024), Motor Kembara yang Mesra Penunggang?

Dunia permotoran telah beralih ke motosikal dwiguna/kembara (‘adventure‘) dan ‘sport-touring‘ untuk beberapa tahun sekarang. Katakan ‘ motor dwiguna’ dan orang biasanya berfikir tentang raksasa 1000cc dan ke atas seperti GS, Africa Twin, Super Adventure, V-Strom 1050… Tetapi, terdapat permintaan untuk motosikal pengembaraan ringan, juga, oleh itu pasaran dwiguna/pengembaraan 250cc direbut dengan sengit di kalangan pengeluar. Dan di sinilah Suzuki V-Strom 250SX 2024 ditempatkan.

Anggota keluarga V-Strom yang paling kecil ini bukanlah sesuatu yang baharu, malah ia sebenarnya adalah salah satu motosikal pengembaraan 250cc yang pertama, dikenali sebagai DL250 sejak 2017. Bagaimanapun, motosikal yang dikemaskini dan menggunakan nama ‘V-Strom’ telah tiba di Malaysia.

Ciri-ciri

Seperti saingnya dalam segmen ini, Suzuki V-Strom 250SX adalah motosikal yang ringkas.

Enjinnya ialah unit 248cc, silinder tunggal, SOHC, disejukan minyak, dan menghasilkan 26hp pada 9,300 RPM dan 22.2Nm pada 7,300 RPM. Sebelum kita terlupa, enjin ini diperakui sebagai EEV – Kenderaan Cekap Tenaga.

Kuasa itu dihantar melalui transmisi enam kelajuan. Tiada klac bantuan dan ‘slipper‘.
Enjin ini ditempatkan dalam kerangka tiub keluli, yang mana fork teleskopik depan dan monoshock belakang turut dipasang kepadanya.

Sistem brek terdiri daripada cakera di depan dan belakang, dengan ABS sebagai standard.
Sudut stereng ialah 27º yang santai, ketinggian tempat duduk ialah 835mm, dan berat basah ialah 167kg.

Pencahayaan adalah LED di sekeliling, panel instrumen terdiri daripada skrin LCD, dan terdapat port pengecasan USB di sisi “menara” instrumen.
Bercakap tentang menara, cermin depan menduduki kedudukan yang tinggi dan tidak boleh laras.

Terdapat beberapa ciri motosikal pengembaraan seperti pelindung tangan dan pelindung bawah enjin yang kecil.

Dan itu sahaja, kawan-kawan.

Menunggang uji Suzuki V-Strom 250SX (2024)

Ketinggian pelana ialah 835mm dan tidak rendah tetapi juga bukan yang tertinggi di kalangan pesaingnya. Suzuki melakukan kerja yang baik untuk melangsingkan kawasan tempat duduk bertemu tangki, dan membolehkan penunggang meletakkan kaki di atas tanah dengan mudah.

Bagaimanapun, ada sedikit nasihat daripada kami yang pelajari daripada Chris Birch, “Kesilapan terbesar dalam kalangan penunggang motor pengembaraan baharu ialah cuba meletakkan kedua-dua kaki di atas tanah pada masa yang sama. Meletakkan satu kaki ke bawah adalah lebih selamat.”

Setelah menunggang motosikal pengembaraan 250cc yang lain sebelum ini, kami menjangkakan tork enjin itu lebih jauh ke atas julat RPM. Sebaliknya, Suzuki ini memecut dengan pantas apabila klac dilepaskan.

Ia ternyata satu perkara yang baik kerana ia menjadikan tunggangan melalui lalu lintas yang sesak suatu kerja mudah. Kami telah menunggang motosikal ini di jalan off-road dan tork yang rendah itu menjadikan motor ini mudah diurus. Apa yang kami perlu lakukan ialah hanya dengan membuka pendikit sedikit dan melepaskan klac sedikit. Mudah.

Walaupun ia menghasilkan “hanya” 26hp, kami mendapati bahawa ia adalah lebih daripada mencukupi semasa bergerak pada 120-130km/j di lebuh raya. Jika anda mencari kelajuan tinggi yang tinggi dari motosikal ini, ia bukan motosikal untuk anda.

Pengendalian jalan raya adalah baik, sama seperti Suzuki lain, tetapi motosikal itu membelok sedikit perlahan pada mulanya, sebelum memereng cepat ke sisinya. Kami mengaitkannya dengan tayar MRF. Tayar ini menawarkan cengkaman yang baik pada jalan kering dan di atas laluan yang ridak diturap, tetapi ia sangat licin apabila jalan basah. Tayar depan akan cuba meluncur ke bawah terlebih dahulu. Oleh itu, untuk mengatasinya, kami menolak motor ke bawah di atas jalan yang basah dan bersandar ke bahagian dalam apabila ia kering ketika mengambil selekoh.

Tetapi ciri yang terbaik Suzuki V-Strom 250SX (2024) adalah suspensinya. Ia selesa namun dapat bertahan apabila terlanggar bonggol dan lubang. Malah, kami terpaksa mengesahkannya dengan sengaja menaiki jalan beralun dan melalui jalan berlubang. Kami juga sengaja melompat apabila berjumpa bonggol (‘speed bump‘). Maafkan kami ya, Suzuki Malaysia.

Suspensi yang seleasa itu pula dipadankan dengan pelana yang empuk, justeru anda mendapat sebuah motosikal yang menjadikan perjalanan di KL mudah dan selesa. Menunggangnya terasa seperti motosikal yang lebih besar tetapi dengan berat yang lebih rendah dan pengendalian yang lebih mudah.

Tambah lagi, enjinnya amat jimat bahan api. Kami mendapat purata 31km/liter secara konsisten walaupun menunggang antara 110-130km/j.

Kualiti motosikal

Kualiti binaan basikal itu hebat: Panel dipasang rapat, cat sekata, dan tiada kabel dan wayar yang berselirat apabila anda melihat di bawah pengapit fork. Malah bahagian bawah rak bagasi juga licin apabila disentuh.

Harga

Sebenarnya sukar untuk mempercayai bahawa Suzuki V-Strom 250SX (2024) hanya berharga RM17,800, manakala semua pesaingnya melebihi RM20,000. Anda mendapat banyak nilai berdasarkan kualiti, enjin, penggantungan, keselesaan dan rupanya.

Penutup

Sebenarnya, jika anda mahukan motosikal pengembaraan permulaan yang mesra pengguna, atau motosikal pengembaraan yang ringan untuk perjalanan saban hari, motor ini amat sesuai sahaja. Penunggang permulaan boleh menggunakan V-Strom 250SX untuk mempelajari selok-belok cara menunggang off-road, manakala penunggang veteran boleh menikmati sebuah motosikal yang mudah dikendali dan tiada macam-macam kerenah.

Sebagai penutup, ia adalah pembelian dengan nilai yang hebat. Kami pilih yang berwarna Champion Yellow No. 2.

Galeri foto

2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX Test and Review, The Most User-Friendly Dual-Purpose Bike?

So, the motorcycling world has been shifting towards dual-purpose/adventure and sport-touring motorcycles for many seasons now. Say ‘dual-purpose’ and people usually think about those 1000cc and above behemoths such as the GS, Africa Twin, Super Adventure, V-Strom 1050… But, there is a demand for lightweight adventure bikes, as well, hence the 250cc dual-purpose/adventure market is fought over teeth and nails by manufacturers. And this is where the 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX fits in.

The smallest of the V-Strom family is not new, by the way, and it was in fact one of the very first 250cc adventure bikes, known as the DL250 since 2017. However, the updated bike, now wearing the ‘V-Strom’ family name has just arrived in Malaysia.

Features

As with its peers in this segment, it is a simple bike.

The engine is a 248cc, single-cylinder, SOHC, oil-cooled unit which produces 26hp at 9,300 RPM and 22.2Nm at 7,300 RPM. Before we forget, the bike is a certified EEV – Energy Efficient Vehicle.

That power is sent through a six-speed transmission. There is no assist and slipper clutch.
The engine is housed in a tubular steel frame, to which the front telescopic forks and rear monoshock are also mounted.

Brakes are discs front and rear, with ABS as standard.
Steering angle is a relaxed 27º, seat height is 835mm, and kerb weight is 167kg.

Lighting is LED all-around, the instrument panel consists of an LCD screen, and there is a USB charging port at the side of the instrument “tower.”
Speaking of the tower, the windscreen occupies a high position and is unadjustable.

There are several adventure bike features such as hand protectors and a small sump guard.

And that is all, folks.

Riding the 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX

The seat heigh of 835mm is not low but it is not the highest among its rivals, either. Suzuki did a great job of slimming the area where the seat meets the tank, allowing the rider to place a foot on the ground easily. Anyway, just an advice from us, which we learned from Chris Birch, “The biggest mistake among new adventure bike riders is trying to place both feet on the ground at the same time. Putting one foot down is more secure.”

Having ridden other 250cc adventure bikes before, we kind of expected the engine’s torque to be further up the rev range. Instead, the Suzuki pulled away briskly when the clutch was released.

It turned out to be a good thing because it made short work of riding through heavy traffic. We took the bike off-road and that low-down torque made the bike easy to manage, too. All we needed to do was open the throttle slightly and modulate the clutch. Easy.

While it makes a “mere” 26hp, we found that it was more than sufficient while cruising at 120-130km/h on highways. If you are looking for high top speeds from this bike, you are missing the point.

Road handling is good, just like other Suzukis, but the bike turned in a little slower, before plopping on its side. We attributed that to the MRF tyres. These tyres offer some good grip on dry roads and light off-road trails, but they are super slippery in the wet. The first to go was the front as it tries to slide underneath. So, to overcome this, we pushed the bike down on wet roads and leaned to the inside when it was dry.

But the true revelation of the Suzuki V-Strom 250SX is the suspension. It was supple yet held its own when hitting bumps and potholes. In fact, we had to confirm it by purposely riding over bumpy roads and through potholes. We even jumped over speed bumps. Sorry, Suzuki Malaysia.

Mated to superbly padded seats and you have a bike that made riding around in KL an easy and comfortable affair. Riding it felt like a bigger bike but with lower weight and easier handling.

The icing on the cake was the fuel frugal engine. We averaged 31km/litre consistently despite riding the bike between 110-130km/h.

Build quality

The bike’s build quality was superb: Flush fitting panels, even paint, and there was no wayward cables and wires when you took down past the top triple clamp. Even the undersides of luggage rack was smooth to the touch.

Pricing

It is actually hard to believe that the 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 250SX is priced at only RM17,800, while all its rivals are above RM20,000. You get a lot of value given its quality, engine, suspension, comfort, and looks.

Conclusion

Truth is, if you want an user-friendly beginning adventure bike, or a lightweight adventure bike for the daily commute, this is it. Beginners can use the V-Strom 250SX to learn the intricacies of off-road riding, while veteran riders can look forward to a jump they can jump on and ride away.

In closing, it is a great buy. Just make ours in Champion Yellow No. 2.

Photo gallery

Suzuki DR-Z4S dan Suzuki DR-Z4SM Dilancarkan di EICMA 2024

Suzuki sememangnya telah menghasilkan beberapa motosikal pengembaraan yang menyeronokkan (dan tahan lasak), dalam rangkaian DR. Ramai peminat Suzuki menitiskan air mata apabila pembuatnya berhenti mengeluarkan DR-Z400S dan DR-Z400SM. Nah, kini kita boleh menjalani kehidupan yang memuaskan sekali lagi dengan pelancaran Suzuki DR-Z4S dan Suzuki DR-Z4SM serba baharu, kerana mereka kelihatan amat MENYERONOKKAN!

Seperti yang anda lihat dari gambar, varian “S” adalah untuk off-road, manakala versi “SM” disarungkan dengan tayar jalan untuk tugasan supermoto.

Enjin:

Enjin 398cc baharu, silinder tunggal, disejukkan cecair, DOHC, empat lejang, dan mematuhi Euro 5B yang menghasilkan 38PS (37.5hp) pada 8,000rpm, dan 37Nm pada 6,500rpm.
Enjin baharu ini menampilkan injap kemasukan titanium(!) dan injap ekzos berisi natrium berongga, sesondol profil baharu, dwi palam pencucuh untuk penghantaran kuasa yang lebih lancar dan linear bersama-sama tork RPM yang rendah.
Terdapat juga kotak udara dan ekzos baharu, bersama klac bantuan dan slipper.
Suzuki mendakwa angka penggunaan bahan api “lebih kurang 3.5 liter/100km (80mpg)”.

Electronics:

Suzuki Intelligent Ride System menyediakan pakej bantuan penunggang elektronik termasuk Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) dengan tiga mod kuasa.
Terdapat juga dua mod kawalan cengkaman standard, dengan setiap varian dilengkapi dengan mod G (Gravel) khususnya sendiri.
Mod G bertujuan untuk mengekalkan prestasi luar jalan maksimum dengan membenarkan putaran roda tertentu. Pada DR-4S ia memberi tumpuan kepada membolehkan penunggang menikmati tunggangan luar jalan dengan yakin. Pada DR-Z4SM ia lebih disesuaikan ke arah permukaan kotoran rata.

Sistem ABS membolehkan penunggang menyesuaikannya dengan keperluan dan keadaan penunggangannya.
Pada DR-Z4S, penunggang boleh menanggalkan ABS di belakang, atau di hadapan dan belakang.
Pada DR-Z4SM, penunggang boleh menanggalkan ABS belakang.
Semua maklumat penunggang dipaparkan melalui pemuka LCD padat.

Chassis:

Rangka keluli spar berkembar yang serba baharu telah dibangunkan untuk Suzuki DR-Z4S dan Suzuki DR-Z4SM baharu.
Ia kemudian dipadankan dengan subframe aluminium baharu dan lengan ayun aluminium.
Casis baharu adalah tegar, namun lembut, bermakna ia boleh menyerap hentaman dan hentakan di kawasan yang lebih kasar, dan mengurangkan keletihan penunggang.

Penggantungan perjalanan jauh pada kedua-dua DR-Z4S dan DR-Z4SM datang daripada KYB, ditala khusus untuk setiap aplikasi yang dimaksudkan oleh model.
Terdapat 280mm perjalanan garpu hadapan dan 296mm perjalanan roda belakang pada DR-Z4S.
DR-Z4SM mempunyai 260mm perjalanan suspensi hadapan dan 277mm perjalanan roda belakang.
Kedua-duanya mempunyai pelarasan redaman mampatan dan lantunan di hadapan dan belakang. Terdapat juga pelarasan pramuat pada kejutan belakang.

DR-Z4S dipasang dengan 21” hadapan dan 18” belakang, dipasang dengan tayar tiub IRC GP-410, dwiguna.
DR-Z4SM menggunakan rim 17″ di hadapan dan belakang, disarung dengan tayar Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A.
Terdapat brek cakera di semua bulat, dan aluminium di bawah pengawal sebagai standard.
Kelegaan tanah ialah 300mm pada DR-Z4S, dan 260mm pada DR-Z4SM.
Ketinggian tempat duduk ialah 920mm dan 890mm dan masing-masing mempunyai berat 151kg dan 154kg.

Rekabentuk:

Pencahayaan bulat adalah LED, daripada lampu depan pemasangan tunggal, lampu gabungan belakang dan penunjuk.
DR-Z4S boleh didapati dalam warna Suzuki Off-Road Champion Yellow, dan Solid Iron Grey, kedua-duanya dengan rim hitam.
DR-Z4SM didatangkan dalam skema warna biru/kelabu baharu, digelar Sky Grey, serta Solid Special White yang dilengkapi dengan rim biru.

Pengilang belum mengesahkan harga Suzuki DR-Z4S dan Suzuki DR-Z4SM.

Suzuki DR-Z4S and Suzuki DR-Z4SM Launched at EICMA

Suzuki did produce some real fun (and bulletproof) adventure bikes, in the DR range. Many Suzuki fans shed tears when the maker stopped producing the DR-Z400S and DR-Z400SM. Well, we can now live fulfilling lives again with the launch of the all-new Suzuki DR-Z4S and Suzuki DR-Z4SM, because they look FUN!

As you can see from the photos, the “S” variant is for off-roading, while the “SM” version is shod with road tyres for supermoto duties.

Engine:

New 98cc, single-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC, four-stroke, Euro 5B-compliant engine which produces 38PS (37.5hp) at 8,000rpm, and 37Nm at 6,500rpm.
The new engine is up-to-date, as expected, featuring titanium(!) intake valves and hollow sodium-filled exhaust valves, new cam profiles, dual spark-plugs for smoother and linear power delivery along with low RPM torque.
There is also a new airbox and exhaust, along with an assist and slipper clutch.
Suzuki claims a fuel consumption figure of “over 3.5 litres/100km (80mpg)”.

Electronics:

The Suzuki Intelligent Ride System provides a package of electronic rider aids including the Suzuki Drive Mode Selector (SDMS) with three power modes.
There are also two standard traction control modes, with each variant equipped with its own specific G (Gravel) mode.
G mode aims to maintain maximum off-road performance by allowing a certain amount of wheel spin. On the DR-4S it focuses on enabling riders to enjoy off-road riding with confidence. On the DR-Z4SM it is tailored more towards flat-dirt surfaces.

The ABS system allows the rider to tailor it to his needs and riding conditions. On the DR-Z4S, the rider can disengage the ABS at the rear, or at the front and rear. On the DR-Z4SM, the rider can disengage the rear ABS.
All rider information is displayed via a compact LCD dash.

Chassis:

A brand new, twin-spar steel frame was developed for the new Suzuki DR-Z4S and Suzuki DR-Z4SM.
It is then mated to a new aluminium subframe and an aluminium swingarm.
The new chassis is rigid, yet supple, meaning it can absorb impact and bumps on rougher terrain, and reduce rider fatigue.

Long-travel suspension on both the DR-Z4S and DR-Z4SM comes from KYB, specifically tuned for each model’s intended application.
There is 280mm of front fork travel and 296mm of rear wheel travel on the DR-Z4S.
The DR-Z4SM has 260mm of front suspension travel and 277mm of rear wheel travel.
Both have compression and rebound damping adjustment at the front and rear. There is also preload adjustment on the rear shock.

The DR-Z4S is fitted with a 21” front and 18” rear, fitted with IRC GP-410, dual purpose, tubed tyres.
The DR-Z4SM uses 17″ rims front and rear, shod with Dunlop SPORTMAX Q5A tyres.
There are disc brakes all round, and an aluminium under guard as standard.
Ground clearance is 300mm on the DR-Z4S, and 260mm on the DR-Z4SM.
Seat heights are 920mm and 890mm and they weigh 151kg and 154kg, respectively.

Styling:

Lighting all-round is LED, from the single assembly headlight, rear combination lights, and indicators.
The DR-Z4S is available in Suzuki’s signature off-road Champion Yellow, and Solid Iron Grey, both with black rims. The DR-Z4SM comes in a new blue/grey colour scheme, dubbed Sky Grey, plus a Solid Special White, equipped with blue rims.

The manufacturer has not confirmed the prices of the Suzuki DR-Z4S and Suzuki DR-Z4SM yet.